Numbers 20:3Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Despite witnessing numerous magnificent signs from God and having come to understand the magnitude of His power through firsthand experience, they remained gripped by fear, worried that God might grow weary of providing their basic needs, bringing sustenance from every corner, and ensuring a steady supply of water. Overwhelmed by timidity and possessing a fragile spirit, they would lash out at their leader in distress over the slightest inconveniences, accusing him unjustly, despite his role as their mediator and his calls to freedom. They praised those who lost their lives due to their earlier cowardice, longing for the foods of Egypt; they were consequently condemned after indulging in harmful desires.

During this time, those journeying through the desert found themselves without water again, causing them to forget God's might. Despite the previous miracle involving the rock, they now doubted whether their needs would be met. With their hopes dashed, they succumbed to complaints, grumbling against both God and Moses.

The actions of the Israelites during the time of Moses, who provoked the Lord at the waters of Meribah and grieved His spirit (Psalm 105:32), serve as a reflection of the disbelief and obstinacy that the Jewish people of later generations displayed against the message of Jesus Christ and the Apostles.